When we say that dogs are companions for life, we mean more than just that they are life-long friends. We also mean that they have the capacity to enrich your life more than almost anything else. They're there to greet you after a tough day and their smiles and wagging tales can't help but cheer you up. They're the most dependable workout buddy you can have. They're cuddly stress relief on four legs. They love you unconditionally no matter what.
But you don't have to take our word for it! There have been a host of studies published recently that tout the benefits of having a canine family member. BBC News published an article touting the findings from the British Journal of Health and Psychology while the New York Times reported on findings from a study by the University of Missouri; both studies focus on the physical and mental health benefits of dog ownership. NPR just ran a story on the amazing effectiveness of dog ownership in treating PTSD in war veterans. The research is in; welcoming a dog into your home is one of the healthiest choices you can make!
Since not everyone is in the position to adopt a dog, APA! has created a program that allows you to "borrow" one! Come visit us Saturday and Sunday mornings to take advantage of the Healthy Dogs, Healthy People program and we'll send you and a canine buddy off to hit the trails together!
If you're looking for a canine buddy during the week, join our Behavior & Enrichment Team and you can "borrow" a dog from an APA! adoption site convenient to your home and take them to a nearby park, greenbelt, or neighborhood for a walk or a run and some light training and socialization!
Not only does participating in the program help keep YOU healthy, it allows you to have an enormous impact in the life of a homeless dog. If you're interested in learning more about the HDHP program or would like to become a volunteer, please email [email protected].
If you are able to welcome a furry new family member into your home, please consider adopting or signing up to become a foster. Regardless of how you choose to get involved, never forget the wonderful benefits you and your canine companion for life bring each other!
*The handsome goofball in the photo is Cash. He is available for adoption and would LOVE to be someone's walking or running buddy! Check out the rest of his photo shoot with ScarlettBlue Photography!
